Single-Shot Dramas and Powerhouse Form Take Centre Stage
By Your Green-Side Insider
Round 2 of the Men’s County Pairs championship brought another captivating evening of bowls across the county. The green offered up a perfect blend of high-wire tension and superb scoring form, with a couple of single-shot thrillers highlighting a fascinating night of action.
The Grandstand Finishes: Single-Shot Heartstoppers
When it came to pure drama, two matches stood out as they went right down to the final wood of the evening:
Brewis Edges Nee: In an absolute battle of wits, P. Brewis (WK) and P. Nee (GC) could barely be separated all night. Both pairs produced excellent drawing sequences under immense pressure, but it was the Walker pair who found the decisive shot on the final end to squeeze through 15–14.
Taylor Pips Burbidge: J. Taylor (PD) and T. Burbidge (SS) engaged in an equally absorbing, close-quarters contest. With nothing to choose between the rinks as the match reached its climax, Taylor’s duo showed great composure late on to claim a beautifully played 14–13 victory.
In Outstanding Rhythm: Powerhouse Scoring
While some ties required nerves of steel at the death, several pairings hit the ground running, establishing early advantages and maintaining superb form throughout.
Robson and Sivell Set the Standard: D. Robson (ST) put together a masterful performance on the green, working beautifully with his partner to secure a commanding 27–5 win over D. Stringer (HE). Not far behind was G. Sivell (ND), who found a fantastic weight early on to navigate a tricky tie against A. Fantozzi (C) 24–7.
Bennett and Donaghy Excel: G. Bennett (G) looked in brilliant touch to defeat C. Watts (NP) 23–7, while S. Donaghy (AM) traveled home highly satisfied after putting together a very accurate display to beat D. Hartley (HE) 23–8.
Other Big Highlights From the Round
Alexander Holds Off Hayden: In a high-scoring, entertaining encounter full of excellent shot-building, S. Alexander (WK) ran out a 25–18 winner against a strong M. Hayden (ST) partnership.
Jameson Impresses Against Ross: L. Jameson (G) carded a very impressive result for the Gosforth club, hitting top gear to defeat a dangerous D. Ross (BD) side 21–8.
Aitchison Powers On: N. Aitchison (ST) put on a very disciplined performance to advance 21–7 against P. Duffy (G).
With several sides advancing via walkovers—and others grinding out close, hard-earned victories—the field is narrowing down nicely as we head toward the business end of the tournament.